If you’ve ever had a dog that can’t stop scratching, biting their paws, or dealing with constant ear infections, you know how frustrating it can be — both for you and your pet. These symptoms are often signs of canine atopic dermatitis (cAD), a common and painful skin condition that affects up to 30% of dogs.
But that may be about to change.
In a new study published in Frontiers in Veterinary Science(Opens a new window), Wisdom Panel™ scientists, in partnership with Banfield® Pet Hospital, Linnaeus, MARS PETCARE BIOBANK™, WALTHAM® Petcare Science Institute and Antech Diagnostics, have identified a genetic variant that significantly increases the risk of developing canine atopic dermatitis (cAD). The finding, centered on the SLAMF1 gene, is the first of its kind and could lead to informed breeding decisions.
“It’s the first time SLAMF1 has been connected to cAD” said Dr. James Barr, Chief Medical Officer of Mars Petcare Science & Diagnostics. “This is a huge step forward in pet care science and is a testament to how we’re able to leverage our global reach to help pets live healthier lives.”
This study is the first of its kind to leverage the MARS PETCARE BIOBANK™(Opens a new window), which was started in 2022 to help scientists better understand how diseases develop and build new ways to prevent, diagnose or treat conditions affecting cats and dogs.
Wisdom Panel has developed a DNA test that will be offered in partnership with Canine Genetic Testing(Opens a new window) at the Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Cambridge so breeders can benefit from this discovery, enabling them to make informed decisions to reduce the frequency of atopic dermatitis while maintaining genetic diversity.
For dogs suffering from relentless itching, this discovery offers real hope for a more comfortable, healthier life — and A BETTER WORLD FOR PETS.
